Restoring green spaces: 'We want to work with the local community to decide what will return afterwards'

Minimising the impact on green spaces

During the design phase, Hynetwork worked closely with municipalities and local residents’ groups to identify ways to minimise the impact on green spaces wherever possible. In some locations, for example, trenchless drilling techniques can be used instead of open-cut excavation.

'With drilling techniques, we can pass underneath a park or green area,' explains Nancy. 'This means we do not have to excavate the entire area to install the pipeline. It helps reduce the impact on existing vegetation.'

However, even when drilling techniques are used, temporary work areas are still required. The pipeline must enter the ground at one location and emerge again at another. Space is therefore needed for machinery, pipeline sections and construction activities.

'Even when drilling is used, it may still be necessary to remove trees, shrubs or plants. We never do this lightly, but in some cases the space is needed to carry out the work safely and effectively. We believe it is important to explain clearly in advance where this is necessary, why it is needed and what it could mean for the local area.'

Special attention for Velsen and Beverwijk

Particular attention is being given to the restoration of trees, shrubs and other vegetation in Velsen and Beverwijk. Construction works will require vegetation to be removed in several locations, including areas near Wijkeroog Park, Holland op Zijn Smalst and the crossing of the provincial road N197.

During earlier consultations, both the municipalities and residents’ organisations highlighted the importance of restoring nature and green spaces once the construction works have been completed.

'We have listened carefully to that message,' says Nancy. 'Residents know their local area best, and as Hynetwork we are a guest in that environment. That is why we want to work together with residents to determine how the green surroundings should be restored.'

The municipalities of Velsen and Beverwijk also emphasise the importance of restoring green spaces with great care. Former alderman Jeroen Verwoort of the Municipality of Velsen explains why these areas matter:

'The development of new energy infrastructure is important, but it must be carried out with consideration for the living environment. In Velsen, we place great value on the green areas surrounding locations such as Wijkeroog Park and Holland op Zijn Smalst. That is why it is important to us that residents are involved in decisions about restoring these green spaces once the work has been completed.'

Developing a green restoration plan together

Following the publication of the draft project decision, we will begin a participation process focused specifically on restoring green spaces. This process will be organised together with the municipalities of Velsen and Beverwijk and residents living in the surrounding area.

People who have not previously been involved in the project will also be welcome to participate.

During these discussions, we will look at what is required to carry out the construction works, which vegetation may need to be removed and what can be restored or replanted afterwards.

'Some trees may be able to be temporarily relocated,' says Nancy. 'We will investigate whether this is possible, where they could be moved to and whether they can be returned once the work has been completed.'

The outcomes of these discussions will be recorded in a Green Restoration Plan. This plan will describe how the area will be restored or redesigned as effectively as possible following construction.

Not everything can be replaced like for like

Nancy stresses that restoring green spaces requires careful consideration and that it is not always possible to recreate every situation exactly as it was before.

'You cannot simply replace a mature tree with a new tree of the same size,' she explains.

There are also regulations that determine what can and cannot be planted above or near underground pipelines.

'That is why it is important to be transparent about what is feasible. We want to work together with the local area to explore what is possible and what people feel is most appropriate.'

The future function of green spaces will also be taken into account. For example, whether an area is primarily used for walking, recreation, sport or as a place for people to meet and spend time together.

Respond to the plans

From 18 September until 29 October, the draft project decision, the Phase 2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the draft permits will be available for review.

The Environmental Impact Assessment describes the potential effects of the project on the local area, including nature, green spaces, noise, traffic, soil, water and safety.

The draft project decision explains where and how the hydrogen network will be constructed.

Everyone can review the documents during this period and submit a formal response.

'We believe it is important that people understand what is happening in their local area,' says Nancy. 'The construction of a hydrogen pipeline is temporary, but the local environment remains. That is why we want to deal carefully with questions, concerns and ideas from residents and other stakeholders.'

Working together on restoration

More information about the participation process and how residents can register will be shared at a later stage.

'Our goal is not only to complete the work successfully, but also to leave the area in good condition afterwards,' says Nancy. 'That is not something we can decide from behind a drawing board. We need the knowledge and insight of the people who know the area best.'